Caregiver, Family

Are you, or is someone you care about, worried about how mental health or addiction issues might affect family members? There are programs and resources available that were created specifically to address the unique concerns of family in such situations.

Affected Others Program

Have you been affected by a loved one’s addiction? If so, know that you are not alone. Affected Others is an eight (8) week supportive learning program for family members, partners/spouses and friends who have a loved one struggling with addiction to drugs, including alcohol (&/or gambling). You will learn relevant and helpful content in a confidential and supportive group setting. This program is in partnership with the Mental Health and Addictions Program, Nova Scotia Health. 

 Participants can expect to gain an understanding of the following: 

• The risk factors and neuroscience of addiction
• How change happens and what makes it possible
• Effective communication strategies and crisis planning
• Learning to establish and maintain healthy boundaries.
• Why self-care and mindfulness are essential for your wellbeing.

This supportive learning program runs for two (2) hours each week for eight (8) weeks, either virtually or in person, for free. 

 This program is for Nova Scotia residents (19) years of age and older who currently reside within the Nova Scotia Central Health Zone (Halifax area, Eastern Shore, and West Hants). For those outside the Central Zone, please call the Nova Scotia Mental Health and Addictions Intake line and ask about possible services for affected others in your area.

Visit www.healthyminds.ca/wellness-programs  for more information. You may also call Healthy Minds Cooperative toll-free (within NS): 1-855-901-6463. 

Families Matter in Mental Health Program

Do you have a loved one struggling with mental health? If so, know that you are not alone. The Families Matter in Mental Health Program is an 11-week evidence-based education program for families anywhere in NS supporting a loved one with any mental illness or combined mental health and addiction concerns. Programs are offered online via Zoom 3 times a year, in the fall, winter, and spring. Groups are small, limited to 10-12 people, to allow for questions and discussion.

You will learn relevant and helpful content in a confidential and supportive group setting. This program is in partnership with the Mental Health and Addictions Program, Nova Scotia Health.  

Participants can expect to gain an understanding of the following:

• Information about many different mental illnesses & addictions
• Patient and Family Confidentiality
• Communication, Problem-Solving & Coping Skills
• Crisis Management & Relapse Prevention
• Community Supports
• Mental Health & Addiction Services
• Recovery & Self-Care

 This supportive learning program runs virtually for free for two (2) hours each week for eleven (11) weeks.  

This program is for residents of Nova Scotia who are currently in Nova Scotia.

For more information, e-mail Familysupports@hope4mentalhealth.ca. To register, go to Hope4mentalhealth.ca, choose Programs and Services, select the program name, and complete the registration form.

Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)

Dealing with mental illness is difficult for the person diagnosed with a disorder, but it can also be tough for those around them. While it’s absolutely important for the individual to be focused on their recovery, we often don’t think about the impact it can also have on family members and friends. CAMH offers advice on how to handle this.

Mental Health Commission of Canada

Family caregivers of adults with mental illnesses play an important role in their relatives’ recovery. The Mental Health Commission of Canada has listed 41 recommendations to improve the capacity of caregivers to provide the best possible care to adults with mental illness, while also looking after their own wellbeing. Read them all here.